The success of science has been rooted in the concept of breaking down complex systems into their basic units. However, to truly understand these structures, it’s important to adopt a different perspective that allows us to see the interconnections of the elements within them. In his book “At the Mercy of the Networks,” research professor Ernesto Estrada explores this concept and introduces the idea of networks or graphs as mathematical objects that simplify relationships between elements.
Estrada’s book discusses mathematical models that simulate the formation of social networks, providing insights into their structural dynamics. For example, he references the Erdös and Rényi model, which starts with a set number of individuals who gradually form connections based on a conducive environment for relationships. However, real-world social networks exhibit specific characteristics such as network density and connectivity, which impact information flow within the network.
The concept of network transitivity, where friends of friends are likely to connect, distinguishes real-world networks from simpler mathematical models. Alternative models proposed by researchers like Strogatz, Watts, Barabási, and Albert offer a more nuanced understanding of social network complexity. Overall, networks serve as a powerful tool for studying complex systems and phenomena and provide a mathematical framework for exploring their intricacies.
